Austin City Limits Launches Season 51 with a Stellar Lineup
Austin City Limits (ACL), the iconic live music television series, proudly announces its 51st broadcast season, starting on
October 4, 2025, at
7 PM CT/8 PM ET. This long-enduring series, celebrated for bringing extraordinary music performances into the homes of audiences across America, is ready to dazzle viewers once again with an exciting roster of new acts and beloved returning artists.
The season opener features
FINNEAS, the ten-time Grammy-winning artist and producer, making his solo debut on the ACL stage. Audiences can expect a captivating hour filled with tracks from his acclaimed sophomore album,
For Cryin' Out Loud! FINNEAS, who first gained recognition through his work with his sister, Billie Eilish, is eager to showcase his artistic evolution and unique sound.
Following FINNEAS, the series will treat fans to a variety of music styles from an impressive lineup of Grammy nominees, including
The Marías,
My Morning Jacket,
Charley Crockett,
Waxahatchee,
Samara Joy,
Kelsea Ballerini,
Cam, and
Jon Batiste. Each week, these artists will bring their hard-hitting tunes or soothing melodies, ensuring that there is something for every music lover.
ACL will also pay homage to
Antone's, a legendary blues club in Austin, celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special episode that honors the rich blues legacy shared by both the club and ACL. This dazzling episode entitled
Austin City Limits Celebrates Antone's the Blues will feature an all-star lineup of renowned blues musicians showcasing unforgettable performances that will resonate in viewers' hearts.
The Highlight of Season 51:
- - October 4: FINNEAS takes the stage for his solo debut.
- - October 11: Indie-pop sensation The Marías deliver their captivating tunes.
- - October 18: ACL honors My Morning Jacket for their induction into the ACL Hall of Fame.
- - October 25: A night with country stars Charley Crockett and Waxahatchee.
- - November 1: Samara Joy captures hearts with her powerful vocals.
- - November 8: A special hour celebrating Antone's.
- - November 15: A double-feature with chart-toppers Kelsea Ballerini and Cam.
- - November 22: The musical genius of Jon Batiste returns to ACL.
As ACL embarks on this new season, it faces challenges stemming from recent cuts in PBS funding effective October 1. Executive producer
Terry Lickona emphasized the show's long-standing importance, noting that past performers like
Willie Nelson have recognized ACL as an essential part of cultural and artistic education, fostering empathy and understanding through music.
Despite the odds, ACL continues to strive for the future by giving a platform to a new generation of artists, blending classic musical forms like blues with contemporary influences.
Beck, another beloved collaborator, stated that ACL preserves and documents significant performances at the height of musicians' careers, creating an exceptional historical archive of art and culture.
To join the excitement of the upcoming season, viewers can catch new episodes live on PBS stations nationwide or stream them after the initial broadcast at
pbs.org/austincitylimits. In addition, fans can expect a robust lineup of content, behind-the-scenes footage, and full-length artist interviews on the official ACL YouTube channel. This fusion of classic and modern vibes guarantees that ACL will remain a key player in the landscape of American music television.
For the latest news, upcoming events, and updates on the schedule, tune into
acltv.com or follow ACL on social media platforms. Whether you are a long-time follower or a new fan, ACL's 51st season promises to be an unforgettable musical journey bringing the very best of artistry to living rooms across the nation.
Austin City Limits continues to shine as a cultural beacon, celebrating over five decades of musical brilliance with a steadfast commitment to excellence in public media.